The Iranian national team has yet again left a hand written note in the dressing room after their final group game against Egypt.Iran drew 1-1 in their third World Cup match after a VAR decision ruled out a Shojae Khalilzadeh goal at the very end.It means Egypt finishes second in the group while Iran now have to wait for at least one of three results between Algeria, Croatia and Congo DR to go their way to qualify for the knockout stage.Belgium, meanwhile, thumped New Zealand 5-1 to go top of Group G on goal difference.Now, due to the ongoing conflict with the US, Iran has been forced to return to their training camp in Tijuana, Mexico, immediately after matches.And on the day of the Egypt game on Friday night (26 June), the US fired radar, drone and missile sites in response to what Donald Trump called a ‘foolish’ ceasefire violation by Iran on Thursday.After the match, the national team left a heartfelt note in their locker room, which read: “We come from IRAN…“From a land that, for thousands of years has placed honor above victory.“For us, football is not only a competition for results, it is a test of character.“Perhaps points can be won in many ways, but respect cannot.“Perhaps a team can advance from a group, but only through fairess and honor can one stand tall before history.“Fair play is not just a line in football’s rules, it is the soul of the game.“Thank you Seattle for your hospitality. And thank you to all Iranians…“Who gave their hearts, their voices, and their whole being for Iran. IRAN, always standing tall.”It comes after Iran’s other note following their second group game against Belgium, ending 0-0.The note, released by the Iranian Football Federation and widely shared on social media, begins by referencing the nation's long history, reading: "From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilised Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast.'We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honour, and leave with dignity," the note continued. "Thank you Los Angeles for your hospitality."And thank you to every Iranian who gave their heart, voice and soul for Iran throughout these 180 minutes."May peace, respect and friendship prevail among all nations."
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